Definition

Adjective: - Characterized by or causing sudden, rough, and irregular movements: Describes something that moves or operates in a way that involves abrupt, jerky motions, often causing discomfort.

Usage and Examples

• Describing a vehicle or ride:

  • The old bus made a jolty journey over the mountain road.
  • We had a very jolty ride in the wagon without proper suspension.

• Describing a surface or path:

  • The jolty track was difficult to walk on.
  • Avoid that jolty road if you're carrying fragile items.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative use for irregular processes:
  • The company's jolty progress was marked by sudden starts and stops.
  • His recovery from the illness was jolty, with several setbacks.

Variants and Related Words

• Jolt (noun/verb): A sudden, rough movement or shock; to move or cause to move with a sudden jerk.

  • The train started with a jolt.
  • The news jolted him awake.

• Jolting (adjective): Serving to jolt; startling or shocking.

  • It was a jolting experience.

Synonyms

• Bumpy: Having a surface that is not even; causing jolts.
• Jerky: Characterized by abrupt, sharp movements.
• Rough: Having an uneven or irregular surface; not smooth or gentle in motion.

Antonyms

• Smooth: Having a surface free from irregularities; moving or proceeding easily without sudden changes.
• Steady: Firmly fixed, supported, or balanced; not shaking or moving jerkily.

Adjective

1. causing or characterized by jolts and irregular movements
   • a rough ride